FFA statement on the passing of David Cervinski

Football Federation Australia (FFA) is today mourning the loss of former Melbourne Knights, Carlton, Wollongong Wolves, and North Geelong player David Cervinski.

The four-time National Soccer League title winner lost his battle with cancer overnight.

FFA Chief Executive Officer David Gallop AM said Cervinski would long be remembered for his distinctive style on and off the pitch.

“David was a no-nonsense defender, someone who was respected by everyone who played with and against him and duly recognised as one of the best defenders in the NSL era,” Gallop said.

“Amongst his many achievements was winning the 2000 Grand Final with Wollongong against Perth Glory at Subiaco Oval in one of the great Grand Finals in history.

“In 2017 we were honoured to have David present the Mark Viduka Medal at the FFA Cup Final.

“Over the past few years he had battled Stage 4 melanoma and wanted to raise awareness to ensure other young footballers are alert to the dangers of this terrible disease.

“With the support of Professional Footballers Australia he was the ambassador for the campaign to Kick Out Skin Cancer which now sees all of the PFA’s A-League and W-League based members undergo skin cancer checks every season.

“We pass on our condolences to David’s family and all of the clubs he represented over his career.

“FFA will honour David’s memory with a tribute to his life and career at this Sunday’s Hyundai A-League Grand Final in Perth,” concluded Gallop.